When you choose an irrigation system, you have to keep in mind three things: convenience, conservation and efficiency. Because portable sprinklers can be lacking in all three areas, we’ll focus here on in-ground systems.

Windows and doors are the types of items in a home that you don’t start researching until you actually need to replace them – and then you usually have no idea what the terminology surrounding them means.

House siding is designed to be sturdy, protecting your home from the elements. Still, it can be damaged and make your house vulnerable. Wind, rain, hail and accidental impact are the main reasons homeowners need siding repair. Improper installation can also cause it to fail early. Here’s how to spot problems and fix them quickly.

Mini-splits are ductless heat pumps that offer a convenient way to condition the air in specific parts of your home. At $4,000 to $12,000 installed, they are a big investment, so it’s important to keep yours well-maintained. That starts with keeping it clean of dirt and mold. Here are the basic steps to keeping yours in good working order.

So you’re tired of your old countertops, or you're eyeing a kitchen remodel. Granite has been the go-to upgrade for more than two decades, but there are many other types of kitchen countertop materials to consider. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a take-out and microwave person, on a strict budget or plan to go all-out, there’s a world of choices for the heart of your home.

Few surfaces take as much abuse as your floors, so it pays to install the best you can afford. While natural products like stone and hardwood are the most elegant and popular, the alternatives are just as exciting, thanks to technology. Let’s take a look at the most popular flooring types, average costs (uninstalled), what to look for, and new innovations.

Be prepared. When you’re planning a home remodel, it pays to take this tip from the Boy Scout manual and do as much planning in advance as you possibly can. The more you know about what you want and how you hope to achieve it, the smoother your remodeling process is likely to be. Use these do’s and don’ts to guide you.

Here's the truth -- there's no secret formula for lighting a house. Each house has different layouts, different color palettes and different furniture, which means there's not a one-size-fits-all rule of thumb when it comes to house lighting. There are, however, a few tips and tricks you can use to change the appearance of your home's interior if you use them appropriately.

A bathroom remodel can add to the quality of your life as well as value to your home. In fact, it recoups at least 82 percent of its value if you sell your place, according to a survey by Remodeling magazine. Upgrading a shower or bathtub is one of the best investments to explore for practical and aesthetic reasons. And it can be surprisingly affordable.